Trade Speculation as McLaurin Extension Talks Stall

For much of the offseason, the Washington Commanders had been steadfast in their faith in a new religion. The Church of the Franchise Quarterback demands early investment. Take a chance on a top pick under center and see a vision of success. Aggressively surround one’s prophet with enough veteran talent and a shot at immortality is promised.

The Washington Commanders have the most important building block for a championship roster. Quarterback Jayden Daniels is a star, and his immediate impact on the organization shouldn’t be understated. So far, general manager Adam Peters has obliged to his newfound responsibility. Daniels accelerated the rebuild, demanding the Commanders make moves emblematic of a win-now window.

In turn, Washington traded for veteran receiver Deebo Samuel and star left tackle Laremy Tunsil early in the new league year. In Round 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft, Peters picked Oregon offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr.

Those trades carry risk, but that’s the nature of being aggressive while the cap flexibility to do so exists. Now, attention has turned to receiver Terry McLaurin.

Trade speculation is brewing as the Commanders stall on an extension for McLaurin, the five-time 1,000-yard receiver. Entering a contract year, McLaurin has produced with a long list of poor quarterbacks and thrived with Daniels. He’s the best receiver on the team, an irreplaceable piece of the offense, and due for a raise.

For now, Washington hasn’t met his number. Fox Sports recently listed the Los Angeles Chargers as the top destination, should this relationship break down.

“While McConkey is certainly capable of being the primary catalyst in the Chargers' passing game, McLaurin would give Herbert the proven, long-standing star receiver that trading away Keenan Allen last offseason deprived him of,” Fox Sports wrote.

“With McConkey getting open underneath and being versatile enough to rip off chunk plays, McLaurin won't be the center of defensive attention, like he has been his entire career in Washington. McLaurin, McConkey and second-round draft pick Tre Harris would give Herbert a balanced and impactful receiving trio to lean on.”

Los Angeles has Super Bowl aspirations, a superstar quarterback, and a need for another dynamic receiver. Every reason the Chargers would want McLaurin is a reason why the Commanders can’t let him leave. Anything less than a McLaurin extension would be a step back from a regime that has – to this point – checked the necessary boxes.